FACT BRIEFCan you receive jail time for failing to pay a gambling debt in Las Vegas?
Yes.
Casinos will issue “markers,” which serve as a loan from the casino, with a specific date to pay back the money borrowed.
Unpaid markers under $1,200 are a misdemeanor, however, unpaid markers over $1200 is a felony, punishable by 1 to 4 years in a Nevada prison.
Not paying casino markers are treated the same as issuing a check without sufficient money or credit.
Casinos will send demand letters, requiring the payment to be made before pressing charges.
In addition, three misdemeanors for unpaid gambling debts, even in other states, could constitute a felony.
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
The Nevada Independent partners with Gigafact to produce fact briefs — bite-sized fact checks of trending claims. Read our methodology to learn how we check claims.
Sources
- Nevada Revised Statutes NRS 205.130
- Las Vegas Defense Group “Casino Marker” in Las Vegas Nevada – What If I Don’t Pay It?
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